Final answer:
Motor skills are the ability to perform learned motor tasks, involving both fine and gross motor skills, and are influenced by genetic factors such as newborn reflexes. Key brain areas like the cerebellum support procedural memory, which allows for the learning and performance of these tasks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Motor skills refer to the capability to perform learned motor tasks, which is the ability to move our body and manipulate objects. These skills are divided into fine motor skills and gross motor skills. Fine motor skills involve the small muscles of the fingers, toes, and eyes, facilitating actions such as writing or grasping small objects. Conversely, gross motor skills make use of larger muscle groups in the arms and legs for activities like running and jumping. Motor skills are influenced by nature, as we can see in newborn reflexes, which are inborn responses present from birth.
The development of motor skills involves various parts of the brain, including the cerebellum, which is crucial for procedural memory and coordinating voluntary movements. In a neurological exam, praxis represents the ability to carry out motor tasks. Learning complex motor tasks, such as playing an instrument or kicking a soccer ball, demonstrates the intricate interplay of motor commands and sensory feedback to execute learned behavior proficiently.
Additionally, technical and physical proficiencies such as memorizing choreography, physical stamina, and flexibility are crucial for artistic and athletic motor skills development. Engineers also require an ability to use motor skills in their practice, often involving the manipulation of tools and equipment.